Analyzing and Evaluating the Deployment of Shared Autonomous Vehicles for Achieving Vertical Equity among Users with Disabilities

Ebrahimzadeh, Mohammad Amin; Afandizadeh, Shahriar; Abodolmanafi, Seyed Ebrahim

doi:10.22034/tri.2025.536158.3362

Analyzing and Evaluating the Deployment of Shared Autonomous Vehicles for Achieving Vertical Equity among Users with Disabilities

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Mohammad Amin Ebrahimzadeh ¹

Shahriar Afandizadeh ²

Seyed Ebrahim Abodolmanafi ¹

¹ Islamic Azad University Science and Research Branch

² Professor-School of Civil Engineering-Iran University of Science and Technology

10.22034/tri.2025.536158.3362

Abstract

This study examines the impact of shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs) on social equity and improved accessibility for vulnerable groups, including individuals with disabilities, children, and the elderly, in Tehran. Three primary indicators—accessibility, cost, and satisfaction with the distribution of transportation services—were selected as evaluation criteria. Data collected from 823 participants were analyzed using logistic regression models. The results indicate that SAVs have contributed to reducing inequalities and enhancing transportation access for specific groups. Satisfaction levels regarding transportation accessibility increased from 40% to 68%, reflecting a 28% improvement in access quality for mobility-impaired individuals. Furthermore, satisfaction with the shared travel cost rose from 35% to 56%, indicating a reduction in economic burden on low-income groups. Satisfaction with the distribution of transportation services improved from 28.5% to 49%, and overall perception of social equity increased from 36.5% to 54%. These findings suggest that shared autonomous vehicles can play a pivotal role in promoting social equity, narrowing geographic disparities, and fostering sustainable urban transportation development.

Keywords

Shared autonomous vehicles"

logistic regression"

vulnerable groups"

, "

social equity"

Subjects